Simply put, telehealth is the use of electronic information and telecommunications to promote long-distance healthcare. This can include video conferencing, streaming media, wireless communications, and other forms of internet communications.
Many medical professionals have begun to incorporate aspects of telehealth into their practice. From dermatologists to general practice physicians, medicine has definitely embraced telehealth. Insurance companies see the value and efficacy of remote clinical care; and they have begun to reimburse for these services as well.
Yes! We feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and secure records. It's designed to be a private, secure, HIPPA compliant platform that allows you to safely and confidently consult with your provider online.
For the physical therapist using telehealth is a natural progression. Physical therapists are musculoskeletal experts and are trained in performing movement analysis to diagnose and treat patients. By offering telehealth services we are able to extend phisical therapy services to not only those that are geographically limited, but also for those who are overwhelmed with work and life's responsibilities - and can't make it to a physical therapy appointment.
When you select a physical therapist you'll be connected with the provider through high definition streaming video. Your therapist will ask about your current symptoms, what exacerbates your joint or muscle pain, your medical history and your goals for physical therapy. You may be guided through particular movements to test your range of motion and severity of the pain during those particular movements. Your therapist will combine all of this information into a personalized treatment plan.
There are provider shortages across the nation with an increasing population of mental health patients. Telehealth provides convenient access that is not obstructed by any geographic restrictions. Telehealth provides private and confidential access to your mental health provider in a safe environment.
When you meet with your mental health provider you'll be connected via a high definition streaming video platform. Your interaction is HIPAA compliant and safe just as it would be in person at your providers office. For some, the online Telehealth experience provides a higher level of peace since the appointment is from the comfort of your own home.
This is a natural question for any PT or patient to ask. Is treating a patient remotely ethical? Physical Therapists are known for their "hands on" approach to patient care. The American Physical Therapy Association endorses the use of telehealth in the physical therapy field provided that the PT is licensed in the patient's own state. The beauty of the telehealth program is that it lowers one of the biggest barriers to patient compliance: COMMUTE TO THE CLINIC!
We can treat as youg as 10 years old. However, a parent or guardian must be present during the televisit session. The minimum age can also vary depending on what type of condition that is being treated. You must be at least 18 years old to be treated without parental consent.